Yacht Reviews NZ

A sunny day on the Hauraki Gulf might be half a world away from Dracula’s castle – but the dead travel fast.

In the realm of modern maxi racers, ‘radical’ is almost the default description. The newly-launched CQS takes the meaning of the word to a new level.

When you migrate to the Bay of Islands for six months of the year to escape the UK winter, having a decent yacht to make the most of the sailing playground is an added bonus.

The first Hanse 315 in New Zealand is the German boatbuilder’s invitation to newcomers to sailing to step onboard, take the helm and learn the delights of cruising without complications.

Fortunate indeed is the boatbuilder who announces a proposed, new model and immediately sells out the entire first year’s production run of 50 vessels – without having laid up a single hull.

New Zealand’s first Bavaria Cruiser 41, Red Baron, is the latest addition to the German builder’s stable. It is a spacious, comfortable yacht with a decent turn of speed. Thanks to remodelling, she’s also sleeker than her 40-foot predecessor.

In less than a year the Hanse 385 has become the German company’s best selling yacht. The 59th boat off the production line has just arrived in New Zealand so Lawrence Schäffler took her for a sail to find out what’s so appealing.

Two Auckland mates who’ve known each other since primary school have just bought near identical Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 519s – confirming that they share impeccable taste.

This 33.8m carbon-fibre sloop’s stately presence would enhance any superyacht marina, but she’s unlikely to spend much time harnessed in one. Cygnus Montanus is owned by a serious sailor.